Frequently Asked Questions About Selecting the Right Virginia Divorce Lawyer

Frequently Asked Questions About Selecting the Right Virginia Divorce Lawyer

What should I bring to my initial consultation?

Bring with you any document you want your attorney to review. Typically those documents include evidence of marital fault (e.g. letters, photos, emails relating to adultery, cruelty and desertion for example), the family’s assets (e.g. checking account statements, retirement/investment account states and appraisals for example), and the parties’ incomes (e.g. recent paystubs and tax returns for example). Your attorney should also review all documents you have received from the court and/or opposing counsel. Notes, chronologies, lists and summaries of events you have prepared may also be helpful. When in doubt, bring documents.

What should I do to prepare for my initial consultation?

You can prepare for your initial consultation by compiling and organizing the documents you would like your attorney to review. Additionally, it is often helpful to creates notes, chronologies and summaries of events; identify and consolidate lists of important dates, names, addresses and account numbers, both to refresh your own recollection and to permit your attorney can easily and quickly digest them. The information collected should also help you generate a list of questions and/or issues you may want your attorney to address during your consultation. In most cases, providing specific information to your attorney will permit him/her to give you more specific answers. Also, carefully consider your budget and decide how much money you are able to spend with your attorney to accomplish your goals.

What should I do during my initial consultation and what should I expect from my attorney?

You should collect information during your initial consultation. Arrive at your attorney’s office early to complete any paperwork that may be necessary. When you arrive, take note of the firm’s proximity to the courthouse and the number of attorneys there. Does the firm appear organized and well run? Does the attorney have legal assistants and/or paralegals that will be available to help you? During your initial consultation, take note of your attorney’s communication style and demeanor. Are they appropriate for what you intend to accomplish? Does he/she appear knowledgeable and suitably experienced? Explain your situation to your attorney and answer any questions he/she might have for you. Always be honest with your attorney. Inform him/her of any issues you expect your spouse to raise and be clear about your
objectives.

From your attorney you should expect a clear evaluation of your matter based upon the law, the attorney’s knowledge and experience. You should also expect well-reasoned advice from your attorney as to how you should proceed to achieve your goals.

How can I save money when dealing with my attorney?

In most cases, your attorney’s fees are the direct result of the time he/she spends on your case. Thus, saving your attorney time should save you money. Here are some tips:

Consolidate multiple questions into a single communication – email or phone call – as opposed
to several individual emails or calls.

Prepare for all meetings with your attorney and come with multiple copies of all requested
information. Provide your attorney with neat and organized responses to his/her requests.

Provide your attorney with written summaries of events and lists of important information such as account numbers and contact information of key figures.

Virginia Family Law: Selecting a Divorce Attorney

Somehow, someway I was convinced to participate in this brief video about things to consider when selecting a divorce attorney. 100% off the cuff, though there were a few takes to deal with the occasional telephone call interruption and technical failure. With a script, lighting, make-up and a professional camera, perhaps the next one will be more tolerable. Enjoy.

About

My experience and background reflect the hallmarks of success one must demand of a lawyer in Northern Virginia's legal landscape. As a native of this area, I have here focused my practice on providing sound and balanced representation to clients navigating the difficult legal waters of family law, including contested divorce, custody, visitation, spousal and child support, and equitable distribution. More >>>

Legal Disclaimer

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog. I hope you find the information here as enjoyable to read as I find to write. Please note that reading this blog does not create a legal relationship between you and Jason A. Weis, Esquire or any other attorney associated with familylawva.com. Moreover, all postings on this blog are merely attorneys' commentary on the state of family law in the Commonwealth of Virginia. THE POSTINGS ARE NOT LEGAL ADVICE – if you have a legal issue or question, I strongly encourage you to contact a lawyer. I would be pleased to refer you to someone if I am able.